Fishing Report Archives - Wolf Creek Angler

Summer Solstice

On this, the eve of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, we’re left wondering how it’s possible that June has nearly passed us by.

Summer is being ushered in with a cold front paired with rain and mountain snow. Perhaps not the preferred forecast for those seeking summer sun but definitely the weather we need as much of the region is already grappling with drought conditions.

Soggy Summer Solstice

Enjoy your summer weather today with sunshine and highs near 90. Tomorrow brings a chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day with a high of 73 degrees. Chance of rain is 100 percent. More of the same tomorrow night with lows in the low 40’s.

The trend continues on Saturday with rain and highs in the low 60s and more of the same on Sunday with highs struggling to hit 60 degrees.

Summer sun and heat will return early next week with temps climbing back into the 70’s and 80’s.

The weekend weather could put a damper on the phenomenal PMD fishing we’ve been experiencing these past couple of weeks but we’ll trade a day or two of dry fly fishing for any precipitation we can get.

As summer heat returns next week expect plenty of company out there. Expect a bunch of boat traffic, an army of wade anglers and no shortage of rec floaters also enjoying this amazing water we call home. It’s officially SUMMERTIME on the MO!

Did I mention phenomenal PMD action? Why yes, I did and it is. The best in years! How long will it last? It’s hard to know but there’s only one way to find out.

Visit Wolf Creek Angler on your way to the water and stock up on the latest and greatest techy PMD patterns. We like a GWS spinner or Jake’s Hatchback paired with a Film Critic, Last Chance Cripple or CDC emerger. You’d also do well to add a few Rusty Spinners into your mix.

Arm yourself with an ample supply of bugs and prepare to deliver perfect presentations (or as close to it as you can get). Fishing to a pod of sippers is NOT the ideal place to practice your casting technique or to perfect your drift, you had all winter to work on it.

Fishing a caddis allows for some level of sub-perfect drift as a skating/skittering caddis often attracts a violent take. Try a Missouri River CDC Caddis, Outrigger Caddis, Stockingfoot Caddis, Cornfed Caddis or any number of classic variations of Elk Hair offerings. And while you’re stocking up on dry flies don’t forget the Buzzballs. Summertime is Buzzball time on the MO.

Terrestrials are starting to come into play. Ants will get some looks. Hoppers on deck.

Those chasing bobbers are also faring well with Split Case PMD’s, Crackbacks and Frenchies leading the charge. PT Little Green Machines, PMD Psycho May and Magic Fly, Doc’s PMD, Stockers Two Hot PMD, Purple or Gold Weight Fly, Tung Darts all good options.

Streamers….not so much but if you can contend with the rapidly increasing volume of aquatic vegetation and you’re convinced you’re going to entice that fish of a lifetime knock yourself out.

Water levels are currently at 4380 CFS with water temps just north of 60 degrees. We’ve likely seen the peak flows come and go; it wasn’t much.

We’re open early, 7 AM daily, and we literally have EVERYTHING you need for your day on the water including sunscreen, ice, the best free coffee in the canyon and The CHEAPEST DAM SHUTTLES ON THE MO.

We’re in the midst of PRIME TIME so lodging is pretty well spoken for, guides are booked solid and rental boats are in heavy rotation and are pretty tough to come by. Disappointing for those looking for that last minute pilgrimage to the MO but it’s a good reminder to make those plans now for 2026. The vast majority of our PRIME TIME bookings are made a year in advance, just something to keep in mind.

Happy Summer Solstice! We hope to see you soon for PRIME TIME on the Missouri.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-06-19T13:33:45-06:00June 19th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: caddis, cheapest dam shuttles on the mo, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, pmd's, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Early June Delivers

It doesn’t seem possible but here we are, days into what folks from around the globe dream of year-round…June on the Missouri River.

Mind you June, especially early June, often means big water and big water often runs cold and delays those prime conditions for DRY FLY NIRVANA but not this year.

This season we’ve yet to see anything resembling big water and while many consider this to be a net positive, we are still holding out a slight hope that spring rains will bring us a bump in flows.

It could happen. Odds are it won’t.

We’ve not seen a bump on the Little Prickly Pear or Dearborn which are both running low and clear and it looks like flows are projected to flatline for the majority of the season at around 4,000 CFS, below the current 5200 CFS which we can only assume will be our peak flow for 2025.

What does it all mean? From the perspective of maintaining a healthy river we always prefer to see at least a taste of flushing flows in the 15K+ range which allows for a flushing of the system and a scrubbing of the substrate. High water, while sometimes challenging to deal with from the angler’s perspective, ALWAYS results in better bugs and usually a spike in fish numbers in subsequent seasons, but worry not, these lower flows carry with them the blessing of an early start to PRIME TIME conditions on the MO.

The flows and the water temps have resulted in one of the earlier PMD emergences we’ve seen in recent memory, like a week or two early!

Spring has been on the chilly side overall, a couple of brief heatwaves notwithstanding, which has made for some challenging fishing over these last couple of weeks. There have been good days. There have been plenty of tough days leaving many of our DIY guests as well as plenty of guides scratching their heads.

Rumors of PMD’s surfaced two weeks ago and were summarily dismissed as mis identification or maybe just wishful thinking but alas, it was true, PMD’s had begun to show themselves but fishing remained touch and go.

Earlier this week things turned around as the switch was flipped and epic days of fishing were seemingly had by the majority of those on the water, at least the majority of those with whom we’ve been talking.

Epic bugs, epic dry fly takes, epic nymphing. If you missed fishing these first days of June on the MO you definitely missed out. What a pay off for those rolling the dice with early June bookings. It’s not supposed to be this way but it was and it is and while we have every confidence that there will be more tough days ahead, it seems the start of the PRIME has occurred which means we could be looking at some extra innings of awesomeness in 2025 on the Missouri.

Get those PMD boxes organized, refreshed and resupplied and keep the Caddis boxes at the ready as well. Both are providing plenty of early dry fly opportunities. This is the time!

Perfect casts and perfect drifts ALWAYS encouraged but you might just be able to get away with some less-than perfect presentations for a minute while the fish acclimate and learn to distinguish between what is real, what sure looks like it could be real and what looks absolutely unlike anything that should be eaten.

We’re loaded up with piles of techy new PMD and Caddis patterns as well as the old standbys you have no reason not to fish.

On the nymph side it’s time for Split Case PMD’s, PT Little Green Machines, PMD and Rusty Magic Flies, Redemptions, Psycho Mays, Frenchies and the like but don’t abandon the sowbugs…never abandon the sowbugs.

We are open early every day at 7 AM or before with EVERYTHING you need for your day on the water. Shuttles, bugs, Adipose drift boat rentals, Trxstle rod racks, ice, sunscreen, raingear, sunglasses, rods, reels, lines, leaders, tippet, boots, waders, fly treatments, tools, packs, some of the best coffee you’ll find in the canyon and of course the friendly customer service and expert advice you’ve come to expect from Wolf Creek Angler, your Outfitter Owned and Operated Missouri River Fly Fishing Headquarters.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-06-05T12:53:54-06:00June 5th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: caddis, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, pmd's, running line, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Soggy Spring on the MO

It’s been a wet week here on the MO but that’s really had no effect on traffic. This time of year it’s go time – rain or shine. Spring bookings are a roll of the dice weather wise with April – June being our rainiest months of the year but those booking spring trips generally know what they’re in for.

It can be sunny and hot one day with temps plummeting the next accompanied by rain or snow. The fish don’t mind. The bugs do but sooner or later it all comes together.

Sunshine has been scarce this week making this morning’s break from the constant cloud cover a welcome site. Cloudy wet days are actually the preferred conditions on the water as far as fishing goes but after a few chilly rain soaked days it’s nice to see and feel the sun.

We’ll see a mixed bag this weekend with rain in the forecast for later today and on Sunday. A drier start to the week next week but still cooler with highs in the 60’s edging upwards late next week into the 70’s.

The cool, cloudy wet days have been perfect for BWO’s but not so much for Caddis. Look for BWO’s to continue to dwindle as we head into the second half of May. Caddis will pop with a little heat. March Browns will continue to tease. PMD’s are on the horizon and midges will persist.

Many are here seeking the dry fly bite and while we’ve had bugs and ample opportunities on the right days those opportunities can often seem to be somewhat elusive. Keep after it and don’t be afraid to fish blind with a caddis or Parachute Adams or Purple Haze. Pods should obviously be targeted by matching the hatch but in the absence of pods and/or bugs you could do worse than running the aforementioned Caddis or Adams tight to the bank and seeing what happens.

As always, nymphing is your go to. They’re still eating the sow but baetis nymphs like the Little Green Machine, PsychoMay and Magic Fly have been the better bugs as of late. Keep fishing those and start to work in some PMD nymphs like the Split Case, Crackback, Magic Fly or Redemption.

Flows have been jumping around a bit, currently 4920 CFS with water temps at 51 degrees. Changes in flows can sometimes have a negative effect on feeding patterns, as can changes in weather patterns. I guess what I’m trying to say is that despite what you may have read or heard elsewhere, it hasn’t exactly been lights out every day. There have certainly been some hot windows but a fair number of lulls in the action as well…and not just for the DIY anglers.

The MO may be as close to a guarantee as you can get when it comes to numbers and quality of fish but…NEWSFLASH…we do have slow days on the MO as well so keep those expectations in check and don’t let a tough day get you down. After all, no matter how many fish you catch or don’t catch you are blessed to be on these fabled waters, drifting through these magical landscapes seeking encounters with these amazing creatures. At least that’s how I see it.

We’ve been busy in the shop and on the shuttle circuit and lodging has been full for the most part more nights than not…it’s a fun time of year to be in the business! We’re open daily from 7 AM – 5 PM and we’re here for anything and everything you need for your day on the water. From The Cheapest Dam Shuttles on the MO to the largest selection of Missouri River bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana to rain and wading gear from Simms and Korkers to fishing licenses to ice to sunscreen to Sage rods and Lamson reels and so much more. We hope you make us your first stop on your way to the MO.

Save Gas. Save Time. Shop at Wolf Creek Angler!

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-05-16T09:47:22-06:00May 16th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: caddis, cheapest dam shuttles on the mo, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Settling In

Spring presents a grind, a minor league grind by comparison to what’s to come but a good warm up nonetheless and a chance to Settle In To Spring.

There have been a handful of genuinely busy days but as per usual, spring traffic is moderate, it just feels really busy sometimes after a winter of achieving customer counts in the single digits more days than not.

Fishing has been solid though the default conditions of sunshine and cloudless skies with varying degrees of breeziness can sometimes make for challenging days, especially for those in dry fly mode.

Not to say it isn’t happening. It is. You just need to be in the right place at the right time and the right time is typically the later part of the day when the sun is low and mid-day breezes have dissipated. Evening midge fishing has been consistently good for a couple of months now and should provide ample entertainment for those who despise the bobber but if you’re looking for BWO’s it’s far from clockwork.

In other words, take advantage of the overcast, not so nice days. Those are the BWO days. Sometimes it happens. Sometimes it doesn’t. We’ve seen a couple of good bug days with some good pods and some very respectable fish willing to eat a well-presented fly. As you’ve no doubt heard, it ain’t like it used to be but it is like it is and you can still catch a behemoth on a dry fly on any given day during spring fishing on the Missouri.

March Browns are not something you’ll typically find in abundance but they’re around and the fish LOVE them. We recommend you keep a few in reach for quick rigging should the opportunity present itself. Mother’s Day this Sunday…the Mother’s Day Caddis have been alerted and have begun to show themselves.

So back to the default weather conditions…nymphing has, and will almost always be, the go to method for those looking to bend the rod with relative frequency. Sunny days still aren’t the best but if you’re fishing deep it shouldn’t matter much. That being said, we’ve certainly had some tougher days as of late where they just didn’t seem to be eating but other days have been what you’ve come to expect on the MO, constant action with a good number of fish to hand.

It’s still a Sow Bug game as it seemingly always is, but baetis nymphs have been the better option as of late with Grey Little Green Machines, Olive Psycho Mays, BWO Redemption, BWO Magic Fly, Split Case BWO’s and plain old Pheasant Tails leading the charge.

Streamer fishing has been somewhat sub-par due I think mostly to the aforementioned weather conditions but low light periods have been good so if you’re going to do it maybe look to that extra early start or those same BWO type grey/rainy/snowy days.

Some days it feels like we’ve hit our season stride in the shop and lodging world with boats and rigs packed in the parking lot, all rooms occupied and multitudes awaiting their turn at the register for bugs and shuttles. Other days it feels like winter again with sparse occupancy and maybe just a few folks poking around the shop. Such is springtime on the MO but it only get’s busier from here so we’re thankful for the gradual start.

Our WCA team has been assembled and I honestly think it’s our best one yet. You’ll mostly see Phil and yours truly in the shop but we’ve also welcomed back Shalon who has been here on and off over the years and Bryan who joined us last year and helps part time with the shop and shuttles. We’re also excited to have Shaniah on board helping with the shop and shuttles and Carson will return in June for a second year of doing anything and everything that needs to be done. Rhonda and Gary have returned to round out the shuttle staff and Missy is back for year number 5 as Head of Housekeeping.

We hope you stop in and meet all of our awesome crew members.

We’re open earlier than most at 7 AM daily and will be extending our hours beginning on Monday, May 12th when we’ll be open from 7 AM – 5 PM Daily.

Stop in for The Cheapest Dam Shuttles on the MO (unless you want to pay more elsewhere) and restock your bug boxes while you’re here. We’ve got more bugs than we’ve ever had and that’s saying something as we’ve always been proud co possess the biggest selection of bugs ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

Fishing licenses, Ice, Trxstle Rod Racks, Sage R8 Classics, Ross Coors reels and SO MUCH MORE.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-05-08T16:01:58-06:00May 8th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: caddis, cheapest dam shuttles on the mo, dry fly fishing, fly fishing, green machine, midge, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Weekend Outlook

Yesterday was an idyllic day on the Missouri with temperatures in the 70’s, nary a breath of wind, blue skies and a wealth of sunshine. Perhaps not the ideal fishing conditions as the fish prefer overcast skies but what a day to be on the water…just a taste of what’s to come as spring progresses but hopefully well down the road, not in March!

Similar conditions on tap for today with a few more clouds and a bit of a breeze but another gorgeous day overall with highs in the low 70’s and west-southwest winds 12-17 mph, gusting to 24 mph. Enjoy it because a return to normal is imminent.

Cooler temps on the way with a high of 60 tomorrow and a 40% chance of rain in the afternoon and a full return to normal spring conditions for the weekend with rain and snow and highs only in the 40’s but don’t let that deter you as these are perfect conditions as far as spring fishing goes.

Flows are holding steady at 3320 CFS with water temps bumping up to near 38.

Nymphing has been good and will continue to improve from here on out, especially as those water temperatures begin to bump. Sow bugs, sow bugs and sow bugs, perhaps with a zebra thrown in for good measure. Fresh flies in bins at WCA including a bunch of sexy new sow bug variations. Pill Poppers, Tailwater Sows, Pink Sock Sow, Scud Bomb, Pederson’s Sow, Soft Hackle Sow, Pink Lucent Bead Ray, Hot bead Ray, Rainbow Czech, Amex, Red Zebra, Knowle’s Ruby Midge, UV Candy Striper Midge, Caviar Scud etc. and don’t forget the Little Green Machines, BWO Redemptions, Magic Fly BWO, Radiation Baetis and any other baetis nymph faves.

Streamer fishing is heating up and will get better and better as water temps increase. Sparkle Minnows, Dirty Hippies, Skiddish Smolt, Swim Coach, Lil Kim, Kousin Kim, Micro Dungeons, Mod Maidens, Polar Leeches, MK Ultras or your big bug of choice. Conventional wisdom would dictate dredging the depths of the winter water while those water temps remain cold, and this can be effective, however, contrary to convention the faster shallows and flats have been producing the better action as of late so fish it all!

Midge action on top when conditions allow for it.

All of our lodging is now open. We’re being inundated with shipments of new gear and as already mentioned, our fly bins are well stocked and ready for the season and daily shuttle service is up and running.

I anticipate a bit of a slowdown next week as the weather returns to normal but for the time being the season is underway! Spring Hours 8 AM – 4 PM daily.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-03-27T10:49:21-06:00March 27th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Idyllic February Float on the MO – photo by Wolf Creek Angler

It’s been less than a week since we were in the icy grip of winter with sub-zero temperatures and a thick blanket of snow covering the landscape.

When I did a boat ramp tour last Friday all ramps and parking lots from Holter Dam to Stickney were buried but after several days of temps nearing 50 degrees nearly all of the snow has vanished, and the ramps and parking lots are clear.

The phones have been ringing non-stop since Monday with folks eyeing up a gorgeous weekend ahead and just like that our winter lodging is full for the weekend, which is something we haven’t seen in months.

I wouldn’t say we’re BUSY but there has certainly been an uptick in traffic in the shop and on the river this week and I’d expect it will feel busy this weekend with a lot of folks from all around the state headed to the MO for a late-winter fix.

As expected with the warmer weather it’s been breezy this week and will be again tomorrow with gusts up to 30 mph expected but Friday we settle into sunshine, temps near 60 and light winds out of the south at 5-10 mph. It doesn’t get much better than that…not this time of year.

Monday will see a return to the 40’s with a chance of rain and snow but above average temps still expected through next week.

The spring-like weather is nice, especially after a couple of weeks of arctic air but we are hoping this is just a brief respite and that we’ve got plenty of more winter on the way.

For now though, we’re here and we’re ready for business. Our lodging may be full but we’re ready to go with shuttles, Adipose rental boats, cold weather gear, sunscreen, bugs a plenty and don’t forget your 2025 Fishing License starting on Saturday, March 1st.

Looking to buy online? You may do so here but if not we’re happy to sell you a fishing license.

Pill Poppers, Pink Soft Hackle Sows, Pederson’s Sow, Tailwater Sow in Rainbow or Pink, Firebead Rays, Rainbow Czechs, Bubble Yum Scuds…you get the picture. Think Pink and don’t forget the Zebra Midges. All available now at WCA.

Winter Fare at Wolf Creek Angler

Conditions might just be right for some stellar dry fly action this weekend as well as March Midge Madness commences. Keep those Griffiths Gnats and other midge cluster patterns at the ready. We’ve got a plethora to choose from.

Swingers are out and having good luck with Polar leeches, Thin Mints, Kreelex, Fruit Rollups and other leechy offerings.

It might feel crowded out there this weekend after months of desolation so please dust off that river etiquette if you’re hitting the water giving a WIDE BERTH to those wade anglers and paying mind to the rhythm of the row arounds, doing your best to maintain the beat.

Official shop hours are still 9 – 4 Tuesday – Saturday at least for another couple of weeks but we’ll likely be here by 8 most days for those getting an early start.

Spring has sprung for the moment…enjoy it while it lasts.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-02-26T14:01:30-07:00February 26th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Holter Dam, midge, Missouri River, pill popper, running line, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|1 Comment

The Window is Open

For those looking to thwart that cabin fever, this is a good time to fish the MO but the window is about to close as winter regroups and returns this weekend.

We’ll see highs near 40 tomorrow through Saturday before the bottom drops out Saturday night and we plunge back into single digits and snow next week.

Expect breezy conditions each day with winds SSW at 10 – 20 mph…could be worse!

Nymphing has been solid with sow bugs leading the charge and pink definitely in play. Pill Poppers, Tailwater Sows, Amex, Rainbow Czech, Soft Hackle Sows, Pink Lightning Bugs, Cotton Candy, Pink Rays, Pederson’s Sow, Bubble Yum Scud….all fine choices. You might also try a black zebra as there has been no shortage of midges around.

Slow winter depths are your target water but don’t be afraid to shorten up and give the faster shallows and flats a try, especially on the sunny days when the sun hits the water and the temps tick up. It doesn’t take much of a bump to draw the fish into the warmer shallows.

Calm, cloudy days, though few and far between, have provided plenty of dry fly action, especially late afternoon when the sun drops below the horizon. Midge clusters and Griffiths Gnats have been money when conditions are right.

Swingers are finding some willing players in the go-to spots depending on the day with Kreelex and Polar Leeches and Thin Mints all producing. Haven’t heard much from the strippers lately but there’s no reason a Sparkle Minnow or Skittish Smolt stripped deep and SLOW won’t produce. On the MO, stripping is best done from a boat no matter the time of year. Leave the standing in cold water to the swingers!

I’m almost always using a heavy sinking line, working rapidly through the shallows so as not to hang up on the bottom and then free falling off the drops and ledges with a twitch or two before a SLOW ascent.

It’s definitely not a numbers game so patience is everything. Fish a bug you believe in and switch up the retrieve until you find what works, incorporating plenty of pauses and keeping in mind that the pauses are for the fish, not for you. Be ready for the grab on the pause. It happens all the time and missing those grabs is a more common occurrence than it should be.

My mantra for streamer fishing is generally to go big with your float and cover as many miles as you can but that’s not the best plan during the winter months as it tends to get cold no matter how many layers you’re wearing. No matter if you’re hunting heads, nymphing or streamer fishing it’s best to keep your floats short during the winter if you’re fishing from the boat.

Best nymphing runs – Holter Dam to Wolf or Wolf to Craig. Best Dry Fly fishing – Holter Dam to Wolf. Best Streamers Craig to Stick. That being said, you’ll find every stretch has its great spots for whatever you are doing and the fish are EVERYWHERE so don’t think you’re limited to any particular stretch for whichever discipline you happen to be employing for the day.

Shuttles at WCA are hit and miss while we await a steady stream of traffic. Please call ahead if you’re counting on us being able to move you. We will be here tomorrow (Wednesday) and likely able to help you. We’re fishing Thursday but will be back in on Friday and Saturday. I wouldn’t expect we’ll be around much next week. Weather will be the determining factor but it looks like the window is about to close.

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-01-28T10:50:41-07:00January 28th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Amex, Bubble Yum Scud, cotton candy, dry fly fishing, Holter Dam, Kreelex, midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Pederson's Sow, pill popper, Pink Lightning Bug, Rainbow Czech, running line, skittish smolt, Soft Hackle Sow, sparkle minnow, Streamer Fishing, Tailwater Sow, Thin Mint, winter, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|0 Comments

Arctic Blast On The Way

To say it’s been a mild winter would be an understatement. It’s been a steady weather pattern for most of the winter with highs in the 30’s and overnight lows in the teens and 20’s with the occasional snow event as well as the occasional heat wave. Unremarkable would be a good way to describe it but that’s FINALLY all about to change.

We’ll see one of those aforementioned heat waves today with highs in the low 50’s (and plenty of wind to go along with the warm temps) but things take a turn this evening as the coldest air of the year and the coldest we’ve seen since last winter, moves in accompanied by snow showers through Saturday and bitter cold temps through Monday.

We’ll see a high of only 22 tomorrow before temps start to drop mid-day and continue to descent into single and negative digits of the weekend. A high of 9 on Saturday with overnight lows of -12. High of 4 on Sunday with lows nearing -20 Sunday night. MLK Day will bring plenty of sunshine but only a high of 12.

It’ll be short-lived as the arctic air moves out on Tuesday and we return to the more “normal” winter weather of highs in the 20’s and 30’s.

We are under a Winter Weather Advisory from 9 PM tonight through 3 PM tomorrow for snow and blowing snow with 1-3 inches possible across the lower elevations and 3-6 inches possible over passes and in the mountains.

Bottom line – if you’re thinking you’re wanting to fish the MO today is the day but expect breezy conditions with sustained south southwest winds of 20 – 28 mph and gusts up to 40 mph possible.

While fishing the river may be off the table for the time being we’re happy to have the winter weather. We did get some snow last week and this cold snap is exactly what we need to lock up and hopefully add to that snowpack.

Conditions have improved over the past week but we’re still in desperate need of snow to feed spring flows throughout much of the region.

So settle in this weekend. Tie flies, organize your gear, clean those fly lines, watch football, maybe even start your taxes…there’s always plenty to do inside and the fish will be there on the other side of the arctic blast.

Tight Lines and GO LIONS!

By Jason Orzechowski|2025-01-16T10:08:14-07:00January 16th, 2025|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|Tags: Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas from all of us as Wolf Creek Angler!

Winter’s Quiet has settled in on the MO. We’re still roughly two weeks out from the Winter Solstice, that shortest of the days, after which the march towards summer sun gets underway. It’ll be here before you know it.

In the meantime all is quiet on the MO. Mild temps this week have seen a slight uptick in angling traffic but Missouri River Solitude is still in great abundance even on the busiest of December days. The mild weather trend will continue through Saturday with highs in the low 50’s though you can expect breezy conditions all weekend with sustained south southwest winds in the 20 mph range gusting to 30-40 mph. Next week looks to be more of the same with no major weather events on the horizon. We’re hoping to start seeing some precipitation in the forecast but nothing much happening at this point.

River flows are definitely on the low end currently being held at around 2800 CFS with water temps holding around 40 degrees.

Reports from the river are few and far between these days but it sounds like the nymphing game is going just fine from what we’ve heard with, you guessed it, Sow Bugs still leading the charge. Tailwater Sows, Soft Hackle Sows, Poxyback Sows, Carpet Bugs, Pill Poppers, Bubble Yums, Rainbow Czechs, Amex, UV Sows, Pederson’s Sow…all fine choices from now until spring. Double them up and don’t be afraid to throw in a Zebra Midge or Rainbow Warrior for good measure. With those water temps still in the 40’s you can expect to find fish in the transitional water, medium depth, moderately fast as well as moving into the slower winter holding water.

There have been plenty of people swinging with moderate success and we’re still in the prime season for stripping as far as I’m concerned. Thin mints, polar leeches and Kreelex on the swing. Skiddish Smolt, Sparke Minnows, Swim Coach, Lil’ Kim, Dirty Hippy, Peanut Envy and Micro Dungeons all producing for the strippers. Fish that same transitional water you’re nymphing and don’t overlook the flats. Fish are everywhere! You’d also do well to dive deep and bottom out with a moderately slow strip/pause retrieve. You never know what might be lying in the deepest of the depths.

I’m not ashamed to report that some of the inventory is on the thin side right now, as it should be in December, but fear not, streamer bins are FULL and we’ve got plenty of streamer lines running the gamut from intermediate to triple density to super heavy shovel heads and everything in between. You’d also be foolish to pass up the opportunity to treat yourself to a new streamer stick for Christmas as our fall rod and reel sale runs through the end of the year.

Boat ramps were a little sketchy early this week but 60 degrees cleared most of them as of yesterday so you should be in good shape wherever you decide to float though I wouldn’t recommend the Dearborn launch right now. Best nymphing float this time of year is Holter Dam to Craig. My go to streamer stretch is Craig to Mid with Wolf Creek to Stickney a close second.

Shop hours are kind of all over the board but you will find us here at 9 AM Tuesday – Saturday for sure and shuttles are at least a possibility on most of those days though it all depends on staff availability so please call ahead. If we’re not able to do them we’re happy to refer you to someone who can.

Remember WCA Gift Cards make great stocking stuffers and can be purchased in store, over the phone or online. It’s tough to know what your fishing friends already have or need but everyone loves gift cards which are good for EVERYTHING we sell including shuttles. We’ve also got a shop full of great gifts to fit any budget and as we close out our 10th Year Anniversary we’re giving away WCA 10 Year Koozies free with any purchase while supplies last.

These tend to be lonely days for Missouri River fly shop staff. We’d love to see you if you find yourself on the MO this holiday season.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-12-05T11:30:23-07:00December 5th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report, Shop Life|Tags: Christmas, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, pill popper, running line, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler, zebra midges|0 Comments

Wolf Creek Angler Missouri River Election Day Update

It’s a cold and gray election day…just as it should be this first full week of November on the MO.

Snow in the forecast for today and tonight. A high of 41 with southwest winds 14 – 17 mph switching to north northwest in the afternoon and gusting to 25 mph. Snow will continue into the evening with patchy blowing snow between 8 pm and 11 pm and an overnight low of 19 degrees. Sunshine returns tomorrow with temps climbing back into the 50’s. Sounds like it could be a BWO day out there though we’re certainly not expecting much in the way of traffic based on what we’ve seen over the past week.

It’s a ghost town out there!

River flows are currently holding at a skinny 3180 CFS with water temps right around 50 degrees. Those flows are lower than we’d like to see but aside from that and those pesky autumn winds, conditions over the past few days have been ideal with plenty of cloud cover and plenty of hungry fish.

With winter on the way those rainbows are bulking up making for some good days out there, especially for those chasing bobbers. Sow bugs, sow bugs and more sow bugs perhaps with a Little Green Machine or other baetis nymph thrown in for good measure. Tungsten Tailwater Sow with a beadles sow, Pill Popper with a beadles sow, Rainbow Czech with a beadles sow…you get the idea. Faster shallows are still going to be your primary target but don’t overlook the tail outs and other holding areas.

The browns are in full, glorious, spawning colors and are amped up and just ornery enough to smash a streamer. If you are wade fishing please be mindful, especially with these low flows, of spawning redds and stay off of them!

Sparkle Minnows, Skiddish Smolt, Mojo Minnows, Thin Mints, Kreelex, Polar Leeches and Swim Coaches all getting plenty of looks depending on the day. And if there was ever a time to go big with your bugs on the MO (some would argue there is not) this would be that time as the perceived threat may trigger an aggressive attack. The better streamer action has been in the upper stretches but don’t let that deter you from hitting the middle and lower sections if conditions allow for it. You never know…

Stop by WCA for the best streamer intel and best bug selection on the MO….hands down!

There’s NO TIME like STREAMER TIME on the MO’ photo by Wolf Creek Angler

And speaking of stopping by…WINTER HOURS went into effect on November 1st. Published hours are Tuesday – Saturday 8 AM – 4 PM, CLOSED on Sundays and Mondays. Hours may fluctuate based on weather or other factors so it’s never a bad idea to call ahead to confirm we’re going to be here. Our crew is gone for the season so it’s just me which unfortunately means that if there are scheduling conflicts then the shop will be closed. We apologetically acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause but with 11 seasons under our belt we’ve learned that winter sales rarely cover winter staffing.

Along these same lines, I haven’t yet figured out how to do shuttles with no staff so while there may be days we can do them, practically speaking shuttles are done for the season.

Fortunately for you there are other options for winter shuttles on the MO.

We’ve closed and winterized the vast majority of our lodging but we will have our three bungalows open all winter at a great rate of $149/night (plus tax). Bungalows have two twin beds, a full size pull out couch, a kitchenette with cooktop, microwave, fridge and a dishwasher and big screen televisions for all of your streaming services.

Whether fishing the MO, chasing waterfowl or elk or deer hunting these rooms are a great late season option. The kitchens come in handy but we’re also thrilled that Lazy I Beerworks is currently open every day but Wednesday for lunch and dinner.

The seasonably relevant fly bins are fully stocked. We’ve got plenty of Simms waders, boots, hats, gloves, socks and layering for whatever Mother Nature throws at us as well as a few clearance sportswear items still hanging around.

WCA 10th Anniversary drinkware and T’s are on clearance as well and our Annual Fall Rod and Reel Sale runs through the end of November so a trip to WCA and the MO could be the perfect opportunity to knock out your Christmas shopping.

Adipose drift boat rentals available as long as the weather holds though the Mending Waters vet boats will be on hold for the winter beginning November 15th.

Get out and VOTE today and come see us next time you head out to fish the MO.

By Jason Orzechowski|2024-11-05T09:14:40-07:00November 5th, 2024|Categories: Fishing Report|Tags: Adipose, brown trout, Election Day, fly fishing, green machine, Missouri River, Montana, running line, simms, Streamer Fishing, Tailwater Sow, vote, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

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